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Oklahoma City Thunder: 5 reasons they can win the West

By Daniel Lubofsky

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 29: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder (left) celebrates with Russell Westbrook #0 against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Amway Center on January 29, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 29: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder (left) celebrates with Russell Westbrook #0 against the Orlando Magic during the first half at Amway Center on January 29, 2019 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
(Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

2. PG for MVP

Following a freshly signed four-year contract signed last summer, Paul George seems as comfortable as ever down in Oklahoma City, averaging career-high marks in points, rebounds, assists, steals and 3-point percentage.

Whereas Westbrook used to be OKC’s unquestioned closer, the former MVP has deferred to his All-Star teammate more often than not this season, and it’s paid off in the form of a number of game-winning shots for the man they call PG-13.

And while his offense has reached new heights, George’s defense hasn’t skipped a beat. Turn on a Thunder game and you’ll constantly see him guarding the opposing team’s top gun. From Kevin Durant to James Harden, he’s always one to take on the challenge and does as good a job as any at making things uncomfortable.

The NBA world thought it had Paul George figured out after eight seasons in the league. One of the better two-way player in the game, his inability to raise his level of play when it mattered most left him a tad below the best of the best. Only this season, he’s set out to destroy that notion.

PG has been OKC’s best player all season and is setting himself up for a spot on the All-NBA First Team. He’s been on a tear as of late, averaging 38.5 points and 2.7 steals a night over the past 10 games. In just about any other season, he’d be at the forefront of the conversation for the MVP award.

Given the reputation he’s garnered over the years, it’ll be important for George to emulate this level of play come playoff time. If he does, it’ll give the Thunder a guy who’s playing about as well as anyone else in the league right now on both ends of the court.

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